The much-anticipated application to transform the historic Royal Bank of Scotland building, in the heart of Bakewell, into a premium dining experience, has now entered the public consultation phase. This will run until Monday 2nd September 2024.
More than 100 comments have already been left on the planning page, including many that express support, such as:
“This is just what Bakewell needs. I am certain that the Longbow team will revive a beautiful old building to its former glory to create another great destination for food and drink lovers, as they have with their other venues.”
“The building has been empty for far too long, it’s nice someone is willing to take it on and transform it. Bringing jobs and people into Bakewell which will in turn benefit local businesses.”
The Longbow team received similar feedback at the building’s first open day in May 2024. 162 questionnaires were completed, with 96% saying that they supported the idea of using the building as a food and drink establishment and liked the proposed layout.
Peak District hospitality entrepreneur, Rob Hattersley, is hoping to turn the beautiful sandstone bank, which first opened its doors in 1838, into an asset that is treasured by locals and visitors alike.
Rob’s vision is to carefully bring the Grade II listed building back to life. The menu would be designed to showcase the local area’s unique people and produce. The interior, curated by Concorde BGW, would celebrate the building’s heritage and location, with emphasis on features like its high ceilings, huge windows, and original cornices.
He is also keen to hear from locals that might be looking to start or develop their careers in hospitality, with the restaurant set to create 60 new jobs. Recently recognised as a Sunday Times Best Places to Work, Longbow has become well known for its commitment to internal progression with robust career opportunities and pathways within the company.
“I grew up in Bakewell so reviving the bank, and turning it into a place that can be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike, would feel like coming home,” explains Rob. “It also feels right to be rescuing such an iconic building, and investing in the local economy. It’s a principle that drives all of my business decisions.”
Rob believes that the new restaurant would be a valuable addition to the Bakewell culinary scene.
“My hospitality career started in Bakewell when I was 14 years old, working at my family’s restaurant, Aitch’s Wine Bar and Bistro,” he says. “Since that was sold 20 years ago, many people have said that there has been a gap. We have plenty of great cafes and traditional pubs but there is definitely room for a spacious, premium restaurant offering exceptional locally inspired dishes.”
As with the other venues owned by Rob’s independent hospitality company, Longbow Bars & Restaurants, the menu would be designed by Raymond Blanc trained executive chef, Adrian Gagea.
It would operate seven days per week, serving breakfast, lunch (including Sunday lunch) and a brasserie style dinner menu. Afternoon tea would also be available.
The planning application is being made in partnership with Coverland UK, landlord of The Maynard in Grindleford and The George in Hathersage.
There will be an open day at the old Royal Bank of Scotland building, Rutland Square, on Saturday, August 3rd from 10 am to 4 pm. The Longbow team will be on hand to talk to local residents about the proposed plans, their vision for the building, and what they hope it will bring to Bakewell.
Those wanting to share their thoughts can do so via the planning application portal (portal.peakdistrict.gov.uk/07240715) until Monday 2nd September 2024. Proposed plans for the interior and exterior and comments that others have left about the application can also be found here.
